The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the World Health Organization (WHO), and various Departments of Environmental Health are warning people in many areas of the United States to prepare for the upcoming mosquito season.
To date, 48 countries and territories in the Americas have confirmed Zika transmissions since 2015. (WHO)
While California had no reports in 2016 or concerns regarding Zika virus mosquitoes, this year’s wet winter and warm spring created ideal conditions for mosquitoes to breed.
ZIKA VIRUS MOSQUITOES THAT EXPECT TO MULTIPLY
It is terrifying that experts predict that the mosquito-borne Zika virus (Aedes Aegypti) will multiply abundantly in the southern and eastern states next summer. The Aedes mosquito could spread to New York City and Los Angeles. This is mainly due to the warm winter and favorable summer conditions.
Interestingly, scientists and researchers at the University of Georgia fear that 26 species of mosquitoes in multiple genes can potentially carry the Zika virus. Several species tend to live in a specific region, the model indicated, and seven species of mosquitoes in the United States could become hosts for the Zika virus.
A colder temperature tolerant species is Aedes Albopictus, the Asian tiger mosquito, which heads north. Albopictus is also an invasive species that carries dengue fever, West Nile fever, yellow fever, and encephalitis.
This could mean that the virus could spread across the Canadian border. Travelers returning from Zika-infected regions can also transmit the virus.
COMPLICATIONS OF INFECTIONS ARE UNDERESTIMATED
A new study published by CMAJ (Canadian Medical Association Journal) suggests that complications from Zika infections are underestimated. During the study, 1,118 Canadian travelers returning from the Americas, 41 were carriers of the Zika virus. (October 2015 – September 2016).
2 of those infected had symptoms similar to Guillain-Barré syndrome, 1 with Zika viral meningitis. The study looked at the full clinical spectrum of acute Zika virus, including adverse fetal and neurological outcomes.
TIPS FOR FIGHTING MOSQUITOES
Prevention efforts should be on everyone’s list this year and start long before bug season begins. Here are some tips to keep your summer mosquito safe:
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Drain and remove excess water in ditches or areas where water collects.
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Eliminate standing water, including planting containers, birdbaths, and dog bowls. Fill with fresh water regularly.
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Check your yard for: old tires where water easily collects, garbage lids, children’s toys, inflatable pools, rain barrels, tarps on barbecues, boats, piles of wood, etc.
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Clean gutters where debris collects and collects water.
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Screens on porches or pergolas can look very stylish and add a decorative touch to your backyard.
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Plants that help deter mosquitoes:
Plant lemongrass and citronella plants near rest areas,
Lavender,
Catnip (get ready to invite some feline friends),
Wonderful,
Basil,
Mint,
Geranium, gold
Rosemary.
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Bird feeders
Birds love to feast on insects. Attract them by hanging some bird feeders around your garden.
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Bat Houses
Bats are amazing insect hunters and they love mosquitoes.
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Cover your food
Use food covers when eating out and remove food when finished.
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Add a breeze
Standing or ceiling fans will also help keep insects away.
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Lawn, shrubs and leaves
Keep shorts cut on the grass.
Remove old debris and leaves from under bushes.
Remove leaves especially in low areas where water can collect, near drains and ditches.
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Insect repellent
Use a natural, non-toxic, chemical-free repellent.
Many natural repellants on the market are very effective, safe, and some repel better than DEET products.
A note on scented candles and torches: Citronella candles and torches only work if you are in close proximity to the burning aroma, within 1 to 2 feet.
